Benfleet and Southend Marshes SSSI Condition

Unit 3 of this SPA, which lies within the study area, is cited as being in unfavourable condition due to coastal squeeze, public access/disturbance, sea fisheries and water pollution discharge. The assessment comment notes, however, that Smallgains Creek is silting up rapidly and therefore the area of mudflats is likely to be increasing. This process is regarded as being small with respect to the ongoing changes in the SPA and Ramsar site.